Walk this Way, Haunt this Way (Haunted Tour Guide Mystery Book 4) Page 5

  The three of us raced over to the mystery aisle.

  “Which book is it?” Tammy asked.

  “Just a random mystery novel.” I traced the spines of the books with my index finger as I moved down the aisle.

  “What if the book isn’t there? Maybe someone checked it out already.” Tammy’s voice got louder the more she talked.

  “You have to calm down, Tammy. Think positive. If the killer wanted me to find a message they probably made sure the book was one that wouldn’t be checked out as often.”

  “You’re probably giving the killer too much credit. I wonder when the killer left the book?” Tammy said almost under her breath.

  I had to admit the thought of the killer being right here made chills run down my spine. I moved down the aisle, not taking my eyes off the books. I stopped abruptly. Tammy almost ran into my back.

  “Here it is.” I pulled the book from the shelf.

  “Is anything inside?” Tammy asked.

  I flipped through the pages. Another letter fell from the page, floating to the ground. I leaned down and picked it up. I looked around to see if anyone was watching us. The killer could be in the library now for all I knew. I pulled the paper from the envelope.

  “The killer is so neat,” Tammy said.

  “Don’t you think the killer worried about the police being able to track them down by the handwriting?” I asked.

  “You’ve been watching too many movies,” Tammy said. “Now what does it say?”

  I unfolded the paper and read. You want to know who I am? I can leave clues for you and I bet you still won’t be able to figure it out.

  “So this is a game for him? This makes me nervous.” The killer was sick and getting way too much pleasure out of this.

  Tammy leaned closer. “So what’s the clue?”

  “It gave me the letter M. Is this supposed to mean something?” I asked.

  “Are you sure there’s nothing else?”

  I turned the letter over in my hands. “Nothing that I see.”

  “Maybe there will be more letters,” Tammy said.

  As much as I wanted to know what this all meant, it was scary at the same time.

  I don’t like the thought that the killer comes into the library. Annie sent a message. We should check the video to see if we can find out who left this.

  “That’s a really good idea, Annie.”

  Tammy searched through the book again and then handed it back to me.

  “We need to check the video,” I said.

  We’d recently installed a video surveillance system in the library. Not only was it good for security, but it was also good for paranormal investigations. It was set up so that when the library was closed anyone could log in and look at the library in hopes that they could catch spirit activity. Annie didn’t want anyone else to see her. She tried hard not to be seen, but sometimes she couldn’t help it. People would email pictures of a shadowy image asking if it was the ghost of the librarian. Annie would say things like, “Oh that is a horrible photo of me.” Considering it was just a misty shadow captured I’d say it wasn’t her best photo.

  Tammy looked around the library. “When will we ever have time to do that? Look at the crowd.”

  “We’ll have to make time,” I said as I paced the book back on the shelf.

  “When are you showing this to Brannon?” Tammy asked.

  “I suppose I have to do it right away, huh?”

  “Probably so. He’d be upset if you didn’t.”

  Monica glared at us and I knew that we had to get back over there soon. Could she have left the message? She would have had plenty of chances. We’d probably never know from the video. It wouldn’t be strange to see her walk down the mystery aisle. There was no guarantee that the camera would catch the person at the exact time they left the letter. The cameras were meant to change positions.

  “Do you think there are other letters already here waiting for us?” Tammy asked.

  I shrugged. “There could be, but how would we ever find out where?”

  “Maybe it has something to do with the book.”

  “Possibly, but that book wasn’t part of a series. There would have to be a different reason.”

  When would the next letter come?

  Chapter 9

  Someone tapping on the counter caught our attention. We turned around to see a woman standing there glaring at us. She had dark hair pulled back into a tight ponytail. Her black pantsuit looked as if it had been tailored to fit every curve of her body. A white silk blouse peeked out from her jacket, and on her feet were five-inch black heels. Gold bracelets, necklace and earrings finished her look.

  “I’m sorry. May I help you?” I asked.

  “I’m looking for Ripley Van Raden.”

  That wasn’t what I wanted to hear. Reluctantly, I said, “I’m Ripley.”

  “Oh, good. My name is Candace Clark.”

  “Nice to meet you.” That came out as more of a question.

  What did this woman want with me?

  “I worked with Alex. We were partners,” she said.

  I exchanged a look with Tammy. “I didn’t know he had a partner.”

  “Well, it doesn’t surprise me that he wouldn’t share that little bit of info. I’m the brains behind this whole thing.”

  “I had no idea,” I said. “I’m sorry for your loss.”

  She stared for a moment and then said, “Thank you. The show must go on.”

  She seemed cold and harsh. What did she mean by the show must go on?

  “Anyway, I’m here to schedule the interview.”

  “The interview?” I asked.

  “Yes, the one you were supposed to do with Alex last night. We still need it. Remember, the show must go on.”

  If she said that one more time… “I just figured that the project is over.”

  “That’s impossible. The documentary can’t stop now. We’ve come too far to quit.”

  “Even when the producer is dead?”

  She stared at me. “He would have wanted to finish the work.”

  I supposed that was true. Alex had seemed passionate about this project. This was just a lot for me to absorb. It didn’t seem to affect Candace.

  “Can you excuse me for just a moment?” I asked.

  She looked a little perturbed, but waved her hand. “Okay.”

  “Tammy, can I speak with you for just a moment?”

  Tammy followed me over to the reference section so that we could talk privately. Annie followed us.

  “What do you think about her?” I asked.

  “She acts strange, doesn’t she?” Tammy said. “She’s kind of bossy.”

  She gives me bad vibes, Annie said.

  She made me feel that way too.

  When I glanced over, Candace was watching us. The way she looked at me made me feel as if I didn’t have a choice.

  “I suppose I have to do it, right?” I asked.

  “You don’t have to do anything,” Tammy said.

  That’s right, Annie added.

  I released a deep breath. “I guess she got me when she said Alex would want to finish it. I mean, I didn’t know him, but I would want someone to do the same for me. I think she’s sincere in wanting to help him, right?”

  Tammy glanced over at Candace again. “I suppose. I’d keep a close eye on her though.”

  “Just one quick interview and then I’ll probably never see her again.”

  Tammy and I headed back over.

  “So? Is everything okay?” Candace looked at us suspiciously.

  “Okay, I’ll do the interview with you.”

  She smiled, although it still didn’t seem all that friendly. “Wonderful. I’m glad you realized how important this is. Alex would be happy and thankful.”

  I’d already said yes, but it seemed as if she was still trying to convince me.

  “So when do we do this?” I asked.

  “I need to do this as soon as possible. I h
ope you have time today?” She stared at me as if daring me to say no.

  I was having second thoughts about saying yes.

  “Yes, I have time today. How about at lunch?”

  This brought back memories of less than twenty-four hours earlier. I hoped the same thing didn’t happen again today.

  “Lunch would be fine.” She looked around the library. “Can we do the interview here?”

  Hmm. I wasn’t sure that was a great idea. Especially if the board members found out. I certainly wasn’t going to try the old funeral home again though.

  “Yeah, I guess the library would be fine.”

  Tammy raised an eyebrow when I glanced over at her.

  “Wonderful. I’ll see you at twelve?” she asked.

  “See you at twelve,” I said.

  Candace turned and walked out the door.

  Annie sent a text. I hope Mrs. Agnew doesn’t find out.

  “Me too,” I said.

  “At least you won’t be alone if the interview is here,” Tammy said, trying to make me feel better.

  “What was that all about?” Monica asked. I knew she’d been watching from a distance and was dying to find out.

  “They’re interviewing me for the documentary today at lunch.”

  She stared at me. “You’re still doing that?”

  “Yes,” I answered without giving her further explanation.

  Monica had excitement in her eyes.

  The morning was busy, so that kept me from getting too nervous about the interview. When I next looked at the time it was five minutes until twelve. Just then Candace walked through the door with Heath and Jeanette behind her.

  “Where should we set up?” Candace asked.

  “We have some rooms upstairs that are private. Pick any room. I’ll be right there. Monica, can you show them upstairs?”

  Monica motioned for Heath and Jeanette to follow her. Candace, paused as if she didn’t want to go, but finally she took off after the others. They seemed quiet, but it wasn’t a surprise. What was shocking was that they could do this so soon after losing their friend. Then again, I didn’t know how close they had been. Not too long ago I’d named them as murder suspects. Of course it could have been random, but most of the time it was someone the murder victim knew. Even a friend or family member. I had a feeling that one of them knew what had happened to Alex. Why wouldn’t one of them spill the details on the other one? Were they all keeping secrets?

  “How do I look?” I straightened my yellow cardigan. My outfit had been just something I’d thrown together with a beige skirt and flats.

  “Add a little blush and some more lip gloss. Remember you’re going to be on camera. You always need more makeup for that.” Tammy grabbed my makeup and quickly gave me a little makeover.

  “Okay, you’re all set.”

  I glanced in the mirror, although I trusted Tammy with my makeup. I headed up the stairs.

  Monica stopped me. “Are you talking with them now?”

  “Yes, they’re waiting for me,” I said.

  “Let me know if you need anything.”

  I stared at her for a moment. “Sure.” What would I need her for? She’d never been a part of the tours until last night.

  I headed up the stairs and down the hallway. I supposed that they’d set up in the second room on the right. When I stepped into the room, I found that it was empty. Why they hadn’t taken the larger room was beyond me. I moved back down the hall to the other room. Sure enough, they were there. Heath was setting up the chairs one in front of the other when I walked in.

  “Great. Glad you made it, Ripley. Please have a seat.”

  I pulled out the chair and sat at the table. It felt weird to have the bright light and camera in my face.

  “Okay, don’t be nervous. Just relax and talk to me like we’re just having a casual conversation.”

  Yeah, right. That would be impossible. Candace sat down across from me and started asking questions about the tour. I wanted to ask questions too. Like, Did you murder Alex? I glanced over at Jeanette and then Heath. Could one of them be the murderer?

  “What made you start the tour?” Candace asked.

  How long did she want me to spend on one question? I suppose I would just try to keep my answers brief.

  “I’ve always been interested in ghosts. Plus, Devil’s Moon is haunted and a beautiful town. I felt that was a perfect combination for a tour.”

  Candace nodded. “How long have you been doing the tour?”

  I counted in my head. “About seven months.”

  A slight smile slid across her face. “Do the residents in town like what you’re doing? It seems as if maybe you’re stirring up the ghosts?”

  “I don’t think that’s the case at all. No one seems to have a problem with it.” I tried to control my irritation, but the more questions she asked the harder it became.

  “Anyway, are you ever afraid that you will attract a spirit and bring it home or that it will hurt you?”

  I stared at her for a moment. I wouldn’t tell her that I already had experienced those things. “It’s an occupational hazard.”

  After several more questions, Candace finished up the interview.

  “Thanks a lot for doing this,” Candace said.

  Heath and Jeanette were busy packing up the equipment.

  I stood from the table. “Candace, can I ask you a question?”

  She looked a little panicked for a moment. I didn’t have the nerve to ask her about the murder, so instead I asked her about the documentary. “Why did you really want to finish?”

  “I have way too much money involved in this project. If Alex couldn’t get the job done then I had to. It’s as simple as that.” She turned and walked out the door.

  I turned to the others. Jeanette and I made eye contact. I’d use this chance to talk with her.

  “I’m sorry about Alex.”

  She continued packing the equipment.

  “I bet it was quite a shock. Do you have any idea who would do this to him?”

  Jeanette looked at Heath. Was she getting permission from him to talk?

  She shook her head. “No, we have no idea. The police told us to stay around for a while.”

  I bet they had.

  Heath and Jeanette finished packing the equipment. “Well, we have to go now. Thanks for everything.”

  “No problem,” I said.

  I followed them out of the room and down the stairs into the main part of the library. As soon as we turned the corner, I spotted Monica. She had stopped Candace. I had a feeling Candace was trying to get away. I rushed over so that I could stop Monica.

  “So if you ever need anything just let me know,” Monica said.

  Candace gave me a look as if to say, Get her away from me. She turned and hurried toward the door. Heath and Jeanette were right behind her.

  “What did you say to her?” I asked.

  Monica shrugged. “I just told her if she needs help with any future projects to let me know.”

  “I had no idea you were interested in documentaries,” I said.

  “I’m not,” Monica said as she walked away.

  She’s so strange. Why do they keep hiring the strange ones? Annie had sent a text.

  To be fair, I’d had my hand in hiring some of the strange ones. I wouldn’t take credit for Monica though.

  “How did it go?” Tammy asked.

  “It was good. I didn’t learn anything about the murder though.”

  “And you thought you would?” she asked.

  “Kind of, yes,” I said.

  Monica approached and waved a letter at me. “There’s a letter for you.”

  “Why didn’t you put it with all the other junk mail?” I asked.

  “It looks as if it’s something you should read right away.” She stretched the envelope toward me.

  “What makes you say that?” I asked as I stepped closer to the reference desk.

  “The word urgent is wr
itten across the front.”

  I took the letter from her. “What’s the return address?”

  She shrugged. “It’s local, but it doesn’t have a return address.”

  I turned the letter over in my hands. “Something about this doesn’t seem right.” I unsealed it and pulled out the paper. I scanned the letter quickly and then looked up over Tammy. Monica had walked away. “It’s another letter from the killer.”

  Tammy’s eyes widened. “This is scary, Rip. What does it say?”

  “Apparently there’s another letter hidden in a book.”

  “Why not just tell you what they want to say with this letter? That’s a waste of paper.”

  “The person murders people. I don’t think they have the best logic,” I said.

  “Good point.”

  I motioned for Tammy to follow me to the romance section.

  “No mystery this time?” she asked from over my shoulder.

  “Apparently not this time.” I moved down the aisle and then finally located the novel.

  With a shaky hand, I pulled the book from the shelf. My anxiety spiked as I opened the cover. I had no idea what to expect this time. Another clue had been left for me. This little game was ridiculous. Nonetheless, I knew I had to read this letter. I opened the envelope and pulled out the paper.

  “It’s another letter. I guess the killer is trying to spell something out for me.”

  “That’s only two letters,” Tammy said.

  I turned the letter over in my hands. Nothing else was written.

  Chapter 10

  What was the person trying to spell? It could be anything. Not to mention it could take forever to spell it out. All I had now was two letters. I hoped it was a short word.

  “Maybe there’s something else.” Tammy took the paper and studied it.

  Unfortunately, I was positive there was nothing we were missing.

  After a few seconds, she sighed. “Okay, so there’s nothing else.”

  Waiting for another letter would be like torture, but we had no choice. The rest of the day I couldn’t take my mind off the message. At least it was time for the tour. That would give me a distraction.

  ***

  I headed toward the graveyard. I made the trip as quickly as I could. We couldn’t stop leading our lives just because there had been a murder, but I had to be more vigilant. I kept my eyes open for anything unusual the entire time. Thankfully nothing strange happened.